Los Angeles Lakers sign Matisse Thybulle to one-year deal
The Los Angeles Lakers have added defensive specialist Matisse Thybulle on a one‑year contract worth $3.3 million. Thybulle, a two‑time NBA All‑Defensive Second Team member, previously played for the Philadelphia 76ers and the Portland Trail Blazers, appearing in 377 career games but limited to 45 games over the past two seasons due to knee, ankle, hip and thumb injuries.
Thybulle’s signing gives the Lakers a veteran perimeter defender as they rebuild around Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves. However, the deal raises the roster count to 16 guaranteed contracts, one above the NBA’s 15‑player regular‑season limit. The franchise will need to waive, trade or otherwise move a player before opening night. Reports also note that the Lakers have explored a sign‑and‑trade for Jonathan Kuminga, though no agreement has been reached.
The addition is expected to bolster the Lakers’ wing defense while the team evaluates roster composition for the 2026‑27 season.